Chelsea are reportedly one of the clubs monitoring a talented 16-year-old who’s already playing first-team football.
Even though the Chelsea squad is so incredibly young, the club continue to be linked with more emerging stars for the future.
Blues co-owner Todd Boehly believes the squad needs a better balance between both experience and youth.
Interestingly, the average age could lower even further next season when 17-year-old dup Estevao Willian and Kendry Paez officially sign at Stamford Bridge. Incidentally, Paez is currently training with Chelsea as he makes an early start on adapting to life in England.
Chelsea scouts following Ajax teenager Jorthy Mokio
According to CaughtOffside, Ajax youngster Jorthy Mokio has been watched by scouts from Chelsea, Manchester City and Arsenal.
Apparently, the Blues are following the versatile 16-year-old star the closest as he begins to make a name for himself in Amsterdam. The report mentions rival interest from Bayern Munich for his signature, too.
Despite only being aged 16, Mokio has already made seven first-team appearances, including appearances in Europe.
| Competition | Appearances |
| Europa League | 4 |
| Eredivisie | 2 |
| Europa League qualifying | 1 |
Ajax recently edged out Union Saint-Gilloise in a two-legged Europa League knockout tie, and Mokio started both games, even scoring in the first leg.
If you look at the trend of Chelsea’s transfer activity under the current owners, it’s no major shock to see them rumoured as a potential suitor for Ajax’s 16-year-old prospect.
Recent rumours claimed that Chelsea are eyeing Leicester City’s Jeremy Monga. At the age of 15, he’s already training regularly with the senior group of the Premier League club.
Elsewhere, Chelsea are monitoring Middlesbrough twins Bailey and Anton Palmer, who are only aged 16.
Who is emerging star Jorthy Mokio?
Belgian youngster Mokio is a product of the Gent academy, where he progressed as a youngster. In fact, he made four senior appearances for them before moving to Ajax on a free transfer in the summer of 2024.
The highly-rated teenager has been playing as a defensive midfielder recently in some games, but he’s got the versatility to cover defensive positions as well.
Speaking earlier in February, Ajax manager Francesco Farioli delivered a glowing verdict on the rising star.
When discussing 16-year-old prospect Mokio, Farioli told Ajax’s official website: “I’m very pleased with him. He is doing well and remains very humble. Now it is up to everyone to help him keep both feet on the ground. He is young and has a lot of talent. But to perform at this level, you need consistency. And that is only possible if you keep working hard, have the right mentality, and are surrounded by a strong culture.”
